The secret of Turkey red--technology transfer with a Scottish connection

The successful commercial introduction of the Turkey red textile dyeing process from Western and South Asia into Western Europe occurred via France in the mid 18th century. The French state was deeply involved in facilitating this technology transfer. During the later half of the century, French dyers from Rouen were involved in a further transfer of this process into Great Britain. In particular, the efforts of Scottish dyers to recruit and utilize the knowledge and skills of M. Papillon, the ambiguous role of the Scottish Board of Manufactures, and the assistance of Professors Black and Hope are described. The eventual success of such ventures resulted in the implementation of the Turkey red process industrially in Glasgow by 1785.